Patio Table Top Alternatives

Tempered Glass

• Today, you might find a built-in outdoor fireplace made of stone, a gazebo constructed of cedar, or a sculptured fountain bubbling in the backyard. Natural building materials are being used in the backyard more than ever, and a patio table top alternative to glass is one area where homeowners can seek a natural element.

  According to Consumer Affairs, there have been several instances of glass patio table tops shattering. Therefore, it is a good idea to replace a non-tempered glass top with a new one made from tempered glass or another material.

Teak

• Although costly, teak is an attractive patio table top. Teak has a warm, rich color and a teak table can be paired with chairs made out of another material to save on cost.

  However, teak has limitations, and eventually succumbs to the effects of sun and weather. Unless you can store teak furniture inside during the winter, or cover it completely, teak will lose its beauty in a few years.

  It is worth mentioning that ALL outdoor furniture takes a beating when it is left outdoors year round. If you really love teak, purchase a reasonably priced patio table set rather than an expensive one, with the understanding that you may get no more than 10 years out of it. Restaining and waterproofing the wood yearly will extend its life.

Tile

• Tiled table tops create a decorative focal point and can reflect a decorating theme. Some tiled tables can be quite heavy, so it may require more than person to move your new table top. Be sure that the tile and grout on a tiled table top have been sealed against water, or the tiles could become loose. Tile can be small colored chips that are formed into a pattern and then grouted, or large tile similar to floor tile, with thinly grouted lines.

Wicker

• Wicker is a popular choice for outdoor patio tables, although a glass top is usually present. Again, be certain the glass is tempered. Although wicker does not tolerate weather well, "all weather wicker" is available that looks like wicker but is plastic resin on a rattan frame.

Powder-coated Steel and Plastic Polymer

• Powder-coated steel patio tables come in a large variety of styles and shapes and are usually sold in sets with chairs. Reasonably priced, powder-coated steel tables need minimum care. Rust that occurs with exposure to weather is the greatest concern with powder-coated steel. However, if it is caught early, rust can be sanded off and matching paint reapplied.

  The latest plastic patio furniture is made of recycled plastic polymer. Usually less costly than any other outdoor furniture, this type of table can handle the weather, yet needs to be weighted down in some manner to withstand strong winds.

PolyWood

• PolyWood is a UV fade resisant and weather resistant option. PolyWood has markings that look like wood grain, however, it is actually made of high-density plastics. PolyWood is "hot sun, cold winter, and salty coastal air" resistant, according to Teak, Wood and More.

Tips

• Wind and weather are the enemies of all outdoor furniture. Ideally, store outdoor furniture in a garage or shed during harsh winter months. Covering the furniture with zippered protective bags is also an option. Simply covering outdoor furniture with a plastic tarp (which can be found at stores with a camping department), provides protection from the elements and is less expensive as well.